SPRINGFIELD (ILLINOIS CAPITOL BUREAU) -- The Illinois Capitol Complex is usually very busy with large rallies, but coronavirus has changed the status quo. Springfield streets normally see thousands of gun owners during Illinois Gun Lobby Day, which would have been Wednesday. That was well before anyone knew about the COVID-19 pandemic. Participants usually march from the Bank of Springfield Center to the Abraham Lincoln statue on Capitol Avenue. Now, all is quiet.
Illinois State Rifle Association Executive Director Richard Pearson says the group rescheduled their lobby day for May 13. But, that has also been canceled as they don't want to risk having a large gathering before it is safe. Pearson says this is one of their only opportunities to talk with lawmakers about gun issues.
"If we can't do that, then there's no reason for our people to spend money and the effort to get there because they can't get in to see them," Pearson said. He mentioned the group is planning to hold a lobby day later this fall if it is possible. Pearson notes this is unprecedented territory for everyone, so groups will just have to adjust. He knows the ISRA isn't the only group trying to have their voices heard.
Meanwhile, the Secretary of State's Office says rallies and tours at the Capitol Complex are still prohibited until April 30. That decision was made shortly after Gov. Pritzker's announced he would extend the stay-at-home order. "This is a very fluid situation and we will continue to work closely with the governor and the Illinois General Assembly," stated Spokesman Henry Haupt. "Expert advice, news and events involving the COVID-19 pandemic will continue to influence our decision making."
